I've been taking pictures "forever" but digital photography has finally allowed me to produce pictures the way I envisioned them. I no longer need to rely on a lab's impression of my rendition. In addition, the freedom to take as many pictures as I feel necessary, as opposed to being restricted by how many exposures on a roll, has allowed me to capture moments and visions I used to miss.
I have been on Panoramio for many years and I really enjoy the interaction with other photographers as well as the ability to see the world on my desktop!